So, I am getting a new Strat for Christmas and would like some input from those schooled in the ancient arts. I am looking at either an American Special (already have 1), American Standard, Deluxe, or John Mayer strat. If I get any of these besides the JM I will probably put Klein S-5's, Jazzy Cats or 69's in it. Just curious what you guys think in terms of fit and finish quality between these.

Im a owner of a Highway One 2009, pretty much similar to the American Special but paint and pups.
Ive just bought a Fender Special Run American Standard with Texas Specials on it, and I cant tell a huge difference in craftmanship from between these guitars. The handrolled frets are pretty much welcome to me ! The Highway now remains as a doorstep.

http://www.fender.com/community/forums/viewtopic.php?t=44771

I have said this before and I feel the need to repeat it here for you.

Buying a guitar is like buying a set of shoes, it has to fit you correctly, and even with the same model and make, being an organic based item, you should go a play as many as you can get a hold of, and when you feel the one that feels right and perfect too you, that is the one you should buy.

I would also suggest you try a SRV strat while you are at it.

The last guitar I bought was a MIM strat, not for the price, but because it fit right. pick ups bridges, and all the bolt on stuff can all be replaced to make it perfectly dialed into your sound and tastes, but a guitar that does not fit will be one you will not play and will sell off later on to get a better unit.

It does not matter if I like it, your friends like it, your girl likes it, your Mom and so on, the only person that needs to like it is you as you will be the one playing it.

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Marriage is like playing cards...

At first all you want are Hearts and Diamonds.

But in the end, all you really want is a Club and a Spade.

I have to agree with Jeff, go try out as many as you can get your hands on.

You may be suprised, and end up in love with a Squier, and that will be the right guitar.

And you will love it!

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I remember when we were free!

You already have a Strat. Get a Telecaster Sorry I couldn't resist.

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Obligatory gear list: Fender, Rickenbacker, Gibson, Gretsch, Vox, Martin, and more Fender.

Since you are planning on swamping out PUPS, I would go for the American Deluxe...they are awesome guitars as far as finish, features, details, etc. If keeping it stock, I would go American Standard, as the tone is great.

+1

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Rated "M" for meaty.

as others have said find one that fits you. give serious consideration to the american standard, and how about the 57 or 62 reissue.

also, whatever guitar you get give the stock pickups a try for awhile with your gear.

i really like the american standard pickups and the 57/62 pickups give really nice warm glassy bell tones.

Very well said, I couldn't agree more.

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Eric Johonson Strat Blonde
Martin OM-1
Martin OO15 (1941)

Like others have already said...go look and try those various guitars on for size and see for yourself.

I have a MIM strat and no problems with fit or finish..I did replace the pick-ups after about a year. Might tweak it some more but down the road.

-T

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-T

"You can't spend what you ain't got, you can't lose what you ain't never had" ~ McKinley Morganfield

Thanks for all of the advice. I certainly plan on trying as many as I can, I just didn't know if there would be anything I should be concerned about in terms of quality build. I would like a reissue but one sticking point are the vintage frets.

That my friend, is great advice! I actually have a 72 RI Deluxe Thinline Tele that I cut my teeth on. Fantastic guitar regardless of what country it was made.